Book III Summary

Boethius tells Philosophy that already he feels greatly consoled and is eager to continue their discussion. She tells him that the next subject is the centerpiece of the whole conversation: the essence of true happiness. True happiness is what all men naturally want, the highest good, the best possible thing. There are many different opinions about what this exactly is. Some men believe that it is to have everything they want and so spend their lives in pursuit of wealth. Others believe that it is to be honored among men and thus work all their lives for a good reputation. Some believe that power is the greatest good and therefore strive for high political office. Still others believe that to be famous is the greatest happiness. The majority of men, however, believe that true happiness is obtained when their bodily pleasures...